#Bayverse superior

[chico123000]

Bayverse is my number one fav, ik so many people hate it but I love theirs designs so much

|| Soundwave reporting, Lord Megatron. ||

[britt-kageryuu]

Not sure on which criteria this should be based on, but here's a question for ya.

Pretty sure I missed a few, and was wondering if I should add MM/TOTTMNT even though their Casey hasn't been introduced officially yet.

Share your opinions if you like.

[novafire-is-thinking]

Speculative Analysis: Why TFP Soundwave is so Terrifying to His Fellow Cybertronians

Time for an essay on why I think TFP Soundwave might have chosen his current cryptid form—electrical tentacles and all. There’s a TL;DR at the end, so feel free to scroll down first and then decide if you want to read the full thing.

This will involve cross-continuity speculation, centered around TFP / Aligned but with some IDW / MTMTE lore thrown in. This could also loosely apply to Bayverse Soundwave, but I won’t be focusing on him. I’m confident you all can infer the potential implications for that version of his character by the time you reach the end.

Okay, so I’ve seen several fellow TFP fans speculate about why Soundwave went from beefy gladiator to bonafide cryptid. Some say it could have been due to the loss of his horde of “minicons” (the term used in ‘Exodus’ by Alex Irvine). Others think it was just Soundwave’s way of adapting to the direction of the war by taking on a form that would give him the best strategic advantage in his position as Megatron’s communications officer. I agree with the latter, but I think there could be more to it than that.

As we see in the flashback for Ratchet’s story and the TFP Titan comics, Soundwave had his current frame type, armor, and alt mode back on Cybertron:

[Sarcastic Soundwave: Superior]

In the real world, Soundwave’s design is based on the MQ-9 Reaper military drone—an earth-based aircraft, but I’m not going to address that small discrepancy since it’s not relevant to this analysis. Skinny, cryptid drone Soundwave existing prior to his arrival on earth supports my theory anyway.

“Can’t we throw a tarp over him? He’s creepin’ me out.”

-Bulkhead in Minus One

On the surface, Bulkhead’s comment and Smokescreen’s subsequent response seem like an interaction between a couple of Autobots who are unnerved because they’re familiar with Soundwave’s reputation—Bulkhead more so than Smokescreen since the latter had probably not seen Soundwave up close in action before coming to earth. However, I think some of Bulkhead’s fear might have been due to an entirely different reason: Sparkeaters.

While reading MTMTE #3, my eyes were met with this lovely sight /s :

[Hey, wasn’t the energon eater in Rescue Bots called “Sparky” too? I guess it’s a cross-continuity tradition to call life-sucking parasites “Sparky” at least once.]

Terrifying? Yes. But I stared in horrified awe at this abomination and thought, “Wait. One. Fragging. Minute. I’m having a galaxy brain moment.”

Mind. Blown. Their overall sharp, jagged appearance, their thin, but formidable frames, their prehensile cables extending from somewhere inside (fuel lines for the sparkeater; multipurpose tentacles for Soundwave). I was—and still am—fascinated by the uncanny resemblance.

[Now who’s Sparky?]

It’s true that sparkeaters aren’t confirmed to be canon in the Aligned continuity, but their existence isn’t denied either. We got something similar with the zombie Terrorcons, but those were a new phenomenon produced either by Megatron’s blind ambition and stupidity or Knockout and Starscream’s lack of forethought and scientific restraint. For the sake of where I’m taking this, let’s assume that sparkeaters, as defined by IDW, do exist in the Aligned universe. What would this mean for Soundwave’s disturbing choice of frame/body type? Why choose a visual motif so strongly associated with death and disease?

One word: Mimicry

Mythologically, historically, and medically, sparkeaters are inseparable from death and disease. Their very existence instills fear in most Cybertronians. What better way for Soundwave to strike terror into the sparks of his enemies (and potential enemies) than to take on a physical form that resembles the sparkeater—something that has been known to kill normal Cybertronians using a deeply disturbing, painful, and even sacrilegious method? Even though the initial shock of seeing a “sparkeater” show up during or around a fight would have dissipated once the Autobots realized it was mostly cosmetic, an impression would have been left. Coupled with his spy capabilities and gladiator-style prowess in combat, a message would have been sent: Be afraid. Be VERY afraid.

And there you have it, folks! Another reason to love Soundwave’s design.

Bonus:

I could see Soundwave being called a few things by allies and enemies alike: “The Decepticon Sparkeater,” “Soundwave the Sparkeater,” or just “The Sparkeater.”

An interaction between two Autobot scouts:

Scout 1, over comms: “You there, kid? Who is it? Who did Megatron send this time?”

Scout 2: “It’s The Sparkeater! He’s here!”

1: “You mean Soundwave!? Do you have a visual?”

2: “How many ‘Cons do we see walkin’ around looking like sparkeaters??? Of course it’s Soundwave! And yeah, I’ve got a visual.”

1: “Aw, hell. Things just got a whole lot more complicated.”

TL;DR: Soundwave may have put more thought into his appearance than is obvious. He may have opted to look like a sparkeater as a way of sending a highly effective warning.

[novafire-is-thinking]

@onewingedsparrow

音波っぱ〜♪

昨日描いた an-hour-drawing とちょっと前に描いた帰ってきた記念

[scribe-of-hael]

There is no criteria, only the superior shall endure

[whitelionspirit]

Been a minute but some thoughts about linguistics reader! In bayverse.

You met Optimus and the others during the beginning stages of working with NEST. While young you were one of the more skilled people in their arsenal as you took special interest in the ancient language that is Cybertronian.

Being the only human who could decode and understand the language you became crucial in communication with the Autobots as you gain the attention of Optimus who was very interested in your work and your grasp on understanding their language to any capacity.

As a being who cared deeply for history and science youboth got along swimmingly. It baffled everyone especially your superiors but they decided to use it to their advantage.

Over the course of the years working together the two of you developed a deep bond. One that was ripped away when the world turned on your friends.

It broke something inside of you when you thought they had been killed when forced to leave your planet.

Even when you found out they survived everything quickly changed and everyone had to flee. They tried to contain you to use you as a bargaining chip for Optimus but you were thankfully saved by Ratchet.

It put a target on everyone’s back and you soon found yourself being forcefully separated from the people who were your family.

For three years you were on the run constantly hiding until they finally caught up with you. Taken back to Chicago you were forced to work and be used as bait for Autobots.

It disgusted and devastated you to see humans experiment on Cybertronians as if they were just heaps of metal to dissect and create weapons from.

The day you were rescued was chaotic you were nearly fired on as you ran for safety in the lab. If you hadn’t been grabbed by Joshua and presented as a prized horse in front of the Autobots you probably would have tried to escape in the chaos.

You defended yourself explaining they had kidnapped you and forced you to do this.

They were shocked to say the least and from the look on Optimus’ face you felt the last of your already broken heart shatter. His last reigning hope had been soiled.

Even after leaving for whatever reason despite everything Hound scooped you up and carried you away from that hell of a place.

No one said a thing until you reunited with Bumblebee and the humans that they were protecting.

You nearly burst into tears at the sight of the yellow mech.

The talks of leaving and the revelation of Galvatron shocked even you. The questions turned to you to ask what you knew of this. You knew nothing and said so.

When Lockdown suddenly appeared you did your best to stay out of the way but got caught up in the fighting.

You and Tessa were taken aboard the ship. You tried to be a distraction for Tessa so she could get away as Lockdown spotted you and were forced from the car you had hidden in. He called you a rare prize indeed a human with the knowledge and history of Cybertron imbedded into your mind. Favored by the leader of the Autobots.

He tossed you into a cage near Optimus as if to taunt you both.

You didn’t speak at first but eventually you did not being able to bare the silence any longer.

“I’m sorry about the others. I didn’t want to help them but they forced me I didn’t know where you were but they knew just using me would attract them out of hiding.”

He was silent for a long time and it made you hate yourself more.

“It is not your fault my spark.”

The last of your sanity burst at his words as you began sobbing uncontrollably.

[eveandtheturtles]

Hi! I saw that request are open, would it be okay to request Bayverse Raph with a reader he has a deep crush on, being insecure about their body? Thank you so much, I hope you have a good day!

Here you go! Hope you enjoy this Nonnie. I wasn't sure if it was supposed to be a scenario or drabble lol. So I went with this.

Requests are open!

@m1dnyt3-w0lf @scholastic-dragon @madammuffins @turtle-babe83 @leosgirl82 @thelaundrybitch @dilucsflame33 @pheradream-15 @sharpwindow

"You guys know that Donnie gonna win this right?" You sipped your drink watching Mikey holding a game of Twister over his head.

It was game night with April, Casey and you joining the brothers for some shennanigans. You weren't exactly sure how Twister got selected though.

"I do have a superior physique for this, yes," Donnie agreed pushing his glasses up with his knuckle.

"Not if I steal his glasses , he won't," Mikey retorted sticking his tongue out at his tallest brother.

"You should play with us," April suggested.

"Nah, thanks, I'm good." You shake your head. The thought of getting in there with everyone made you deeply uncomfortable. "Plus Leo and Raph aren't playing either."

"That's because Leo's got stick up his butt and Raph ain't as nimble as I am," Mikey leaned in next to you, wiggling his brow ridges.

You snorted and pushed his face away. "I don't think you need a doughball like me in there then," you joked.

A loud sound of glass breaking got everyone's attention.

"Sorry, slippery hands," Raph replied, badly hiding the death glare he briefly send Mikey's way.

"Are you alright?" You asked, immediately getting off of your bar stool and joining him to help clean up.

"It's fine," he grumbled getting broom and a dustpan.

"Let me help," you offered. At the same time you reached your hand and took the duspan out of his hand, brushing your palm over his fingers.

Raph froze a little. "You don't have to, I've got it."

"I know, but it will be faster with help!" You replied cheerfully.

"You should join the others," he told you as he started sweeping the glass shards. Gosh that thing really broke almost to dust.

"Nah, I think they have full house without me there," you brushed that off with a smile. Looking over your arm you saw Mikey dragging Leo to be the one to spin the colour wheel.

Truth was everyone there was just so... fit and attractive, especially April. Meanwhile you... you were just not. With your body rolls, stretchmarks and body hair growing where , according to magazines, it shouldn't. Yeah, it's best to stay out of it.

The red clad turtle humphed something under his breath as he finished sweeping. You threw out the glass. He stomped away irritated for some reason, leaving you a little confused.

You looked at the party going on. Casey was the first to fail. You followed after Raph.

You found him in the gym, angrily starting to pick up the dumbbells.

"Hey, uh..." You hovered by the entrance. "Did I make you angry somehow?"

He paused.

"You've been a bit weird the past couple days and..." You almost jumped out of your skin when he tossed the weights away.

He huffed, inhaling through his nose loudly, then exhale. His jaw was moving as he was clearly working something out. He started to pace.

"Raph?"

"You're being stupid!" He suddenly fired.

"What?"

"You're being stupid," he repeated, "and it's pissing me off! Cause I know what you're doing!"

"What am I doing?" You were getting annoyed and ready to fight him.

"You're thinking!"

"Excuse me?!" Your voice raised.

"No, shit, what I mean is- you- you keep thinking those thoughts! That you're ugly or something," he tried to explain. "That's bullshit you know? You're- you're gorgeous and strong! And- and pretty and you smile so wide and you give best hugs and you don't make me feel like a freak..." He paused staring right at you. "And I want to beat up every single person who made you hate yourself."

Tears swelled in your eyes, so your tried blinking quickly. That took you so completely off guard.

"You are funny and-," he suddenly was in front of you. "I think I might like you." He said that last part quietly. He raised his hand up to your cheek but then quickly dropped it and cleared his throat. "Anyway-"

You cut him off, hugging him tightly. "Thank you."

His arms closed around you tightly. "Yeah, don't mention it."

"Hey, Raphie?" You said after a moment.

"Myeah?"

"I like you too..."

[incorrect-bay-tmnt]

Me talking to myself in the mirror after staring at this gif for 10 whole minutes

[mychlapci]

I can't follow you on the eat/piss/puke part but yeah bayverse megop sex is so violent. Because Megatron uses it to prove he's stronger and superior, clawing and biting him the whole time he's pounding into him. Meanwhile Optimus cannot forgive Megatron for any of his crimes but is SO angered by the fact that he's still attracted to and craving Megatron after all this time.

bayverse megop have the most violent sex out of all continuities megop and you can quote me on that.

bayverse Megatron and Optimus fucking is indistinguishable from their fighting.

[fictional-love-is-my-life]

Hi can I request bayverse headcanons reaction of crosshairs, bumblebee and optimus prime and megatron meeting a woman reader of gorgon medusa? Does the reader have a snake body with armor and does her power to turn people to stone also work on Cybertronians? (the reader can only transform someone if they want).

Megatron:

Megatron was just wandering the Earth, exploring it, looking for things he may find of use to him. He didn’t know you existed, nor that he was walking into your home until it was too late. You showed up, hissing and baring your teeth.

He finds you to be an interesting specimen. But he likes you a lot more than the humans. You’re stronger and less squishy, with armor and an ability to fight. You’re far superior to all humans. And Megatron likes that.

He saw the Cybertronian statue in your lair, so he knew your power was also fatal to him. But he had no intention of getting on your bad side.

He wanted a partnership. He felt as though you could be useful to each other. He could provide you with a better home and more protection from the humans. And you can be a valuable weapon in his arsenal.

All he had to do was convince you to join his side.

Crosshairs:

It was a complete accident that he found his way into your home. He tried his best not to knock over any of the statues littering his way. Most of them were human, he only started to get concerned when he saw one of a Cybertronian. He wondered who carved it and how they had made it look so realistic.

Then he saw you, in your slithery glory. You were not a human. Crosshairs assumed you had come from another planet like him.

You yelled at him, telling him to leave. He wasn’t scared, but he didn’t appreciate getting yelled at by a stranger.

“Trust me darlin’, I’m trying. Now where is the exit in this place?” You calmed down after realizing he was not there to attack you. Once you realized her was eager to leave, you showed him the exit.

Crosshairs was happy to leave. He didn’t need to make any more friends. Though his large mouth is hard to keep shut, so he compliments the statues, saying you have some great carving skills.

“They aren’t statues, I didn’t carve them.” Crosshairs stopped, then began to mentally kick himself. He wasn’t curious, he wasn’t curious. Yes, he was.

He asked what she meant. Then wished he didn’t. A creature with the ability to turn others into stone, he found it terrifying. He was just glad she only did it on those she felt threatened by.

Crosshairs said his farewell and quickly left. He made sure to remember the location of your home, so he could make sure to avoid it.

Optimus:

He had heard about some strange activity on the human’s news. Usually, Optimus would not bother himself with humanities issues. But many eyewitnesses mentioned the words monster and alien. So, he decided to investigate.

He drove to the place of all the sightings, making sure no humans were around before transforming, He then began to search around. Optimus was expecting to find a Cybertronian, perhaps one who was lost or trying to hide. He was not expecting to find you.

You were definitely not human. Though he did not know what you were.

Optimus bared his empty servos and spoke softly, stating he was not going to hurt you.

He was intrigued, your snake-like body was unlike anything he had seen before. He was glad that you were interested in talking and not fighting. He got to know you and your story, and he then reciprocated with information about himself.

Your power was quite intimidating, but he was not worried. He was not going to hurt you, which meant you had no reason to turn him to stone.

He knew you could possibly be fine on your own. But he offered you safe harbor with him and the other Autobots. He knows how dangerous humans can be, and he does not want the wrong kinds of humans to stumble into your home. At least with him around, he could offer you a little more protection from harmful humans.

Even though technically your power made you more dangerous than all the humans. He thought it would still be nice to take you under his wing.

Bumblebee:

Bee was on patrol when he heard screaming. He rushed over to where the commotion was and spotted and number of humans with guns. He also spotted you. Your snake form backed against a wall, your armor scratched and dented.

He was not off put by your appearance. He’s a giant robot, so he has no grounds to judge. What he did feel was pity and worry. He could see you were scared and running out of options.

One of the humans was aiming their gun, about to fire, when you flashed your eyes and turned them to stone.

Bee was a little alarmed. He’d never seen such power. He hoped he’d never be turned to stone. But you were in danger, and he couldn’t stand by and do nothing. That was not what Autobots did. He had to help.

The rest of the humans were about to open fire when Bee quickly jumped in front of you, taking all the hits. The bullets bounced off his frame.

“I’m getting you out of here.” Bee said through his radio then offered you, his servo. You took it. Bee carefully picked you up and took you to safety.

Bee did not feel sad for the human who was turned to stone. They threatened you and you defended yourself. Yet he also thought your power was quite dangerous and he hoped you only used it when you had to.

Bee took you somewhere safe before putting you down. He introduced himself, asking your name and asking about your history.

He was very curious to know where you had come from, and how you were on Earth. He wondered if it was a similar tale to his.

[whyamiheretumbled]

TMNT Smarts(Spoilers for IDW!)

@smudged-kaleidoscopeThis part will be about TMNT and how the fandom and creators view their smarts! And how it can be extremely weird..

Everyone assumes that Raph is genuinely too rash and reckless to make good decisions.now,Raph is reckless and easily stressed(even in 1987 or Rise), but that doesent mean he's stupid compared to Leo, which a lot of ppl *seem* to think

Raph is protective of his brothers, and is constantly shown that they shouldn't follow his behaviour(Seen when Leo allows Karai to enter the Turtle's car in 2012,the Pizza Puffs ep of 2018,or even in 2003,City at War!)

While he IS reckless, it seems he really wants his brothers to just stay on the damn task and get the job done. Not to mention, he tries to keep them safe. While he can be irrational, that doesent mean he wants to watch them follow his behaviour(2003 Raph says, "I hate when Leo starts reminding me of myself",not a direct quote)

Raph's smarts are less analytical focused and way more SURVIVAL focused, which actually brings us to Mikey <3

First of all, Mikey has never been a baby. In mirage, his anger and violence actually rivaled Raph's,Dr.Feelings and Delicate Touch both exist, in 2012 Mikey straight up punched someone hard enough to break their nose, hell, he threw a couch out of a window.

Mikey is constantly underestimated due to his baby face, gullible tendecies, empathy, etc, bcuz adding on to being genuinely the youngest, he is ALSO the most optimistic out of his brothers, and the one who understands emotions the best

Mikey is typically street smarts, or emotional smarts, seen in Mutant Mayhem with his Improv Club, or seen in 2003 where he instantly gets along with kids, or 2012 and the whole Acne episode

Mikey isn't stupid by any means. Sure, he may not pay attention or have a difficult time understanding stuff, but even in Bayverse he's shown to have smart moments. Unfortunately,due to his silly persona,he is constantly downplayed(Though The Last Ronin shows what happens when Mikey needs to focus because he's lost everything)

If Mikey had more motivation, say for example, being tricked into sex and having babies(mirage),he would probably try to be way smarter. But either way, it's constantly shown he picks things up easily and can think quickly! 2012 and Rise are both great examples <3,as well as moments in 2003

Now, we all know Donnie is smart. That's his big thing, his smarts. But he's his own special kind. He uses his own pros to his advantage, and while this can also slow him down due to not wanting to change his ways, this can also help him!

Seen in IDW, Donnie uses his flaw of ignoring Leo's orders and his pros of his tech to trick the Shredder, I won't go in full detail, but it comes at a price.

Anyways, Donnie is shown to havequick thinking at least, when he can anyalze a situation. He is actually VERY reckless, seen in 2003 building missiles into his car, or 2012 going on a killing rampage.

When he can't anyalze something, he jumps into it.Unlike Mikey, he lacks the ability to quickly access a situation, but he gains the abilities unlike his brothers to quickly map out a plan using logic,common sense, and his brain

Now Donnie had his dumb moments, because he DOESENT WANT TO ACCEPT THAT OTHER PEOPLE CAN BE RIGHT. you may think no, he wants to listen to others, but being so smart he sometimes thinks he's better than other people and superior,shown in multiple iterations, highlighting Rise, 2012,1987,and IDW.

Donnie's smarts run way deeper than knowing mathematics and engineering and etc, they stem into being able to study a problem and find out an efficent way to solve if, unfortunately,he doesent always want to realise he's allowed to need or want second opinions...

Leo's will be very short. He is a analytical and strategic thinker. He maps out plans, focuses on the battlefield, uses people like chess peices, highlighting in 2012 and Rise. I'll go deeper another day(that's what she said)

AHEM. Now, people constantly assume because Leo's brothers aren't the same type of thinker he is,that they're not smart. They're easily stubborn, can be tricked, not fully access a situation, doubt themselves, etc...

But Leo struggles with many of these things, the narrative is just pushed to make it seem like he's always in the right, however, he does almost always go through character development(at the cost of his childhood)

Leo is can be emotionally stunted, act manipulative(seen in 2003),jist be plain rude(2012),because he's leader/strategic,and wonders why no one would listen to him.

If he allowed his brothers to have input,it would be beneficial for the four of them, as they all contain qualities needed to make good plans.,and are all smart,and while I hate this saying, they're smart in their own way.

Mikey can answer philosophical questions, he doesent have the general care for others or his own regard like Raph generally does, Raph has survival skills but doesent know when to be calm, etc etc

[andauserene]

Request Guideline!!❤️

In case many of you want to request, there's always a few rules to follow :

No NSFW🚫

No Major x Minor (except strictly platonic)🚫

No Sibling x Sibling (except strictly platonic)🚫

No LGBTQ+🚫

Other than those are good to go

I do multiple and crossover fandoms, such as :

Transformers (Shattered Glass, Bayverse, Capleverse, Knightverse, Primeverse but I don't really know G1, Cyberverse and Skybound)

Oshi no Ko (my AU or better version [you can request any AU])

Poppy Playtime (Human AU or original AU)

Genshin Impact

Honkai : Star Rail

Murder Drones

Minecraft

I think I do more so feel free to request!

Masterlist :

Transformers

Oshi no Ko

Genshin Impact

Honkai : Star Rail

Murder Drones

Poppy Playtime

Minecraft

My other blogs :

@sereneisstillhere

@soundwave-is-far-superior (somehow I can't tag this one, so I'll drop the link here : 🫐💜)

My WhatsApp channel : 🎫🎬

Thank you❤️

Last revision : Tue, 29 Oct 2024

[angelfoodcake222]

Could you imagine if Megatron, from any & nearly EVERY continuity, had a grandma or Grand Carrier & she was nicknamed Grannytron? Wouldn't she be the cutest, sweetest, scariest thing to ever exist!? I bet she could scare IDW Sunder & IDW Overlord straight (no pun intended), even the DJD wouldn't be able to stand up to her. This doesn't help the fact that she shares details similar to Optimus; finials, waistline, protective nature, face details (TFA & G1), etc. Wanna hurt her grandchild in any way, shape, or form? Fight her. Wish to wreck whatever Megatron is working super hard on? Fight her. Courting him? Fight her.

🥊👵🥊

Besides, look at the mechs!

But, y'know, gently with all the respect her grand sparkling is owed & has earned. I can see Bayverse's/RID's Fallen/Megatronus finding her just as threatening as Solas Prime if not more so, head cables & all with a (comparably) well-portioned amount of Starscream & Knockout's

He NEEDS a stronger older figure in his life who isn't an ex-ally, backstabber, or thirsty fake follower who turns out to be a rabid Yandere (no hate or names Tarn) & is likely already well-versed in how to handle any & every enemy of theirs because she skull dragged/throttled those enemys' predecessor(s) throughout her life. She will most likely give them the bare aft whooping their superiors should have done in their youths. These mechs need a break if possible with a kinder, more maternal servo to guide them through it. Possibly a slight major attitude adjustment AKA Vibe Check from someone who isn't afraid of him besides their archivist-turned-archenemy would do him some good. I'd be so, so happy if she was just the right size to handle him like:

✨💅Sass💅✨

I bet she could & would absolutely smack some sense into the Cybertronian Cains'/Judas' heads & laugh when they threaten her followed by a right beating even Vector Prime couldn't dish out. TFA Grannytron is probably more amiable, esp to OP. Look at that baby face! Ooooh, & those expressive finials!

[britt-kageryuu]

So I did this last month, and since I was told multiple times that I forgot an iconic Casey Jones, I will be redoing this poll.

Even though 2003 Casey was the winner last time, he will still be included for fairness.

Still not sure if I should've just bundled Cass and CJ together, but they will be separate for the heck of it.

Still wish there was word on the MM/TOTTMNT Casey, but time will tell if they live up to the Casey Jones Name!!!

Share your opinions if you like.

And may the Best Casey Win!!

[nevis-the-skeleton]

My analysis of RID15 (good points and bad points of the series)

Hey ^^! New analysis, I haven't done any since last month, that's a long time. Well, as you saw in the title, today I'm going to talk about Transformers Robot in Disguise, 2015. I'm going to talk about what I didn't like and what I liked about the series, trying to develop my reasoning.

Well, I prefer to be honest, I didn't like RID15 very much. Well, I didn't hate it like the Bayverse movies, but let's say that the series mostly bored me a lot.

*

First of all, I will tell you about the points that I didn't like:

1 - The predictable and bad scenario

First, the scenario is predictable and bad. Generally, when I watch a movie or a series, I expect to be surprised, I like not being able to predict what will happen next. I already predict everything in real life, I wish I didn't have to when I'm watching something.

The problem is that, in RID15, the scenario is predictable, and above all always the same. Here is the list of the typical scenario of RID15 (especially in season 1 and 2):

- The heroes are at the Scrap yard, and often argue over a subject

- They come across a villain (often while going on patrol)

- They attack a first time but fail

- The heroes argue, then reconcile.

- Humans offer to help

- The group moves on to the second attack, and manages to stop the villain

You put this list on any episode of the series, you will see that it works almost every time. Except on season 2.5, but I'll talk about that later.

Also, I presented another point about the scenario, which is that it's bad. There are no triggers, no real adventures or missions, no challenges, no big bads guys, and no relationships between the characters. Except that well, without these five elements, it's impossible to make a good story.

Well, OK, maybe I'm exaggerating, there's a kind of trigger in RID15: Optimus asks Bumblebee to protect the Earth (why only Bumblebee? We don't know. But hey, that's okay, scenario).

But to give you an idea, I will give the example with Transformers Animated, of what is a good story (I could try with others Transformers series). Remember, the five main elements are: a trigger, an adventure or mission, a challenge, one big bad guy or more, and relationships between the characters. It works normally even on the classics, it's the base in fact.

TFA :

Trigger: They are repairers of space bridges, and find themselves propelled on Earth, an unknown place. They cross paths with Starscream, break the All-Spark, and at the same time Megatron comes back to life.

Adventure or mission: Find pieces of the All-Spark, and fight the Decepticons, and also some humans, while having to handle their superiors (in particular the insufferable Sentinel Prime)

Challenge: Well, a lot actually, since they're considered to be at fault for destroying the All-Spark, they really need to fix it. The Decepticons also want to have it, so it becomes even more dangerous, because the All-Spark is really a powerful artefact. Surely Megatron could create an indestructible army with it. There's also a whole conspiracy beginning to form on Cybertron, with the dangerous Shockwave.

Big Bads Guys: Megatron, who leads the Decepticons; Shockwave, who plots on Cybertron; and Starscream, who does his stuff alone (and a Starscream alone is dangerous, remember my analysis: Why does Megatron keeps Starscream?)

Relationships between characters: In the beginning, the small team of Optimus; which consists of: Optimus, Ratchet, Bulkhead, Bumblebee, and Prowl; only see each other as work colleagues, and they really don't get along well. Optimus doesn't want to fit in, because he's still sad about being demoted; Prowl finds Bumblebee insufferable; Bumblebee dislikes Prowl because he's too serious, etc. But, over time, relationships come undone to become stronger. They then form a real team. And even between the secondary characters like: Jazz or Sentinel. Well, Jazz is getting to know Prowl, and Optimus and Sentinel already have a bond. Or with humans, Sari gets along well with the Autobots, but her BFFs are Bulk and Bee.

Now back to RID15, and see what this story has to offer us!

Trigger: Optimus contacts Bumblebee to go protect Earth. He takes Strongarm and Sideswipe (not by choice). They cross paths with Fixit, a small robot who took care of the Alchemor ship, as well as the Dinobot Grimlock (a Decepticon who decides to join them, because OK why not).

Adventure or Mission: Stop the Alchemor Escapees (what more can I say, that's all that happens in seasons 1 and 2. Oh, and actually, there's a conspiracyon Cybertron (but we learn about it only during the end of season 3)

Challenge: Well… These Decepticons are kind of thugs and brigands, so… The risks are: property damage, and the Transformers kind being discovered. We are far from the potential destruction of the world that TFP offers us (no, really, in each episode of TFP, you tell yourself that the planet will end up really dying, given how much the Decepticons are making a mess).

Big Bads Guys: Sleejaw??? Megatronus??? Cyclonus??? Steeljaw doesn't appear often enough, and Megatronus and Cyclonus appear too late, and for only one or two episodes.

Character Relationships: Bumblebee and Strongarm have a leader and cadet relationship; Strongarm and Sideswipe don't like each other; Grimlock appreciates the team but doesn't really try to get to know them; Drift doesn't bond either, but he does have an actual Master/Father relationship with Slipstream and Jetstorm; Windblade passes by from time to time, a small friendship with Strongarm and Sideswipe, maybe. Russel doesn't specifically have a Transformer BFF, Sideswipe may be a friend, but not a BFF. There is still a father-son relationship with Russel and his father.

You see, compared to TFA, the story is empty, the relationships are poor, and the challenges are non-existent.

It's not necessary to have a main character. You can have several characters, and follow them all equally, without one being more important than the others. It's rare, but it does exist, especially in series or films with teams. So, I have no complaints about that about RID15.

On the other hand, the other five points that I mentioned are essential for a good story. You need at least a 4/5, you don't always need to have a big bad guy for a story to be good. Unless if a villain is needed, like in RID15.

2 - Character development is practically non-existent

Secondly, most characters don't evolve, they keep repeating the same mistakes forever: Bumblebee doesn't improve that much as a leader (except a little in Season 3); Sideswipe and Strongarm never seem to get along, despite spending a lot of time together.

I haven't seen any real evolution or improvement, either in the heroes or the villains. Apart from some, which I will discuss later. But, first, what is the evolution of a character?

A character evolves when he learns from his mistakes, or changes his behavior. Usually it's always about getting better, sometimes it can be physically (like in sports manga, where the hero keeps training to get better), or mentally (like getting nicer or more brave).

An evolution of a character often consists in transforming his faults into qualities (therefore transforming them into strength) or in combating his faults, which often prevent him from advancing.

But here, there is none of that. Sideswipe remains eternally disobedient, which often leads his team into trouble; Strongarm fails to bend the rules, or calms down his competitive spirit, which makes him a burden for the team; and Bumblebee doesn't try to improve his command techniques, he just repeats them until it works. And let's not even talk about Optimus (I'll talk about that right after)...

Let's give the example of another Transformers series: Rescue Bots. Already, what we know of the original characters is: Heatwave is stubborn and does not always listen to his team; Chase only cares about the rules but ends up ignoring the rest; Blades is not brave at all and is whiny; and Boulder forbids himself doing things, and does not show what he really likes.

OK! This is the team we have at the moment. However, over the course of the series: Heatwave becomes more empathetic and attentive; Chase tries new things, he steps out of his comfort zone for others; Blades overcomes his fears, and complains less often; and Boulder evolves his curious mind and reveals himself as he really is (an artist and nature lover).

That's perfect character development. And, generally this evolution is only possible if the character makes a mistake, knows the cause, and tries to correct it. Or, a mistake or an accident happens to the character, but he comes out stronger. Blades, for example, is often injured in the series, but he always overcomes the pain, because his primary mission is to save lives. At the very beginning of the series he would surely have whined and given up.

The evolution of the character have to be visible. This is something very important because it allows the viewer to love the character, and to appreciate his new personality little by little.

3 – Optimus is not Optimus

Well, I'll be honest with you, I don't like the RID15 Optimus at all. For me it's not Optimus! Or at least, not the on of TFP, or many continuties (@emperor-kumquat did a great analysis on that: here).

The Optimus we have in this series is a controlling Optimus who does not listen to others. But, what kind of Optimus is that?! Especially since he almost always needs help, which makes him a huge burden for the team.

But it's a fragging Prime!! Respect him a minimum! That's something that really confused me on the show is how useless Optimus is, and how no one respects or fears him!

Sideswipe is even particularly insolent with him, calling him "Pops", and Optimus is forced to call him to order. Except that, normally, he shouldn't even have to!

In Transformers culture, in most series, a Prime is closest to Primus. Like a half-god. It's like if in ancient Greece, an simple human gave a nickname to Hercules like "Cucules". I'm not saying that Optimus should be put in a superior position, but on an equal and respectful one.

Also, the Decepticons do not seem to particularly fear Optimus, but as a reminder: It's a PRIME!! You have a Prime in front of you, and you're just a poor thug who clearly can't do anything against him, you're freaking out! Even Megatron feared Optimus! Megatron!! Fearing a powerful person is a form of intelligence and self-preservation, so I'm okay with some of the villains on the show being a little dumb, but please not all of them...

4 - The bad guys are mostly... lame

Now let's talk about the villains in the series. Honestly, I don't see them at all like a threat, and sometimes even ridiculous. I don't even see them as dangerous individuals, except maybe Steeljaw, and the Stunticons (Motormaster especially).

But otherwise, for me, none of them got the criteria of a good villain (@le-sluagh did an excellent analysis of what is a good villain, I give you the link: here).

I'll sum it up, but basically a good villain should: be a threat, preferably charismatic, we understand their purpose, know who they are, and see them plotting.

But, there, in the series, but there is none of that… The big bad guys like Megatronus and Cyclonus are swept away so quickly that we don't even have time to see them as threats. We know nothing about them, we at least know what they want, that's already not bad.

Most of the villains on the show are empty, they usually have only one personality trait, but that's all. They always have it, and it's always constant. Normally, the villain and the hero evolve, for good or for bad. They change to become better, or change to become worse. But there… well… nothing… Again, in a movie it's ok, but in a series… No...

I won't complain about the show introducing new villains, it's common and it's good to innovate. But, they still have to be presented a little more than: "His name is 'like that', he committed 'select a gangster crime', so he's mean". It's a little introduction of the character, but we really learn nothing...

Also, there's another thing that surprised me, it's that it's that there's only Decepticons with animal forms in season 1 and 2. But, why? Why did the Alchemor only carry this type of Decepticon? Why not other appearances?

5 – Informations or characters that appear suddenly

When I say that, I'm actually talking about something that you don't know, and suddenly find out, when no clues were left for you to know anything.

Again, for Megatronus Prime, it was not that bad (I insist on not that bad). Because, he appears as a kind of hologram around the middle of season 1, but after that he hardly ever appears again. I don't mind that we don't automatically know who it is, but I would have preferred more appearances. Kind of scenes where Steeljaw talks to him, so his appearance isn't too abrupt.

There was also the other half of the Alchemor, which is only mentioned once in the very first episode of season 1, and which we only see around season 2, that's a long time… and above all, well… if it's never recalled or mentioned, well, we forget about it!

And, the conspiracy on Cybertron is way too subtle, it's only really halfway through season 3 that you realize there's a plot. Generally, the spectator understands before the hero, or it's true sometimes at the same time as him (but it's more often in films or detective series).

In each thing I have mentioned, there is one important point: The information is too abrupt or too subtle. It's something that we can also see in season 1 of TFP, but still it's ok, because Unicron and his energon are mentioned very often. So it's not too shocking when Unicron is the final boss of Season 1.

But there, well, you can't know who the real villain is, what the danger is. You don't have any clues, or they're far too subtle to notice.

6 - Morality

I find that the moral in the series is not necessarily well conducted, I can see that it's: by joining forces we become stronger. Except that, since the heroes don't learn from their mistakes and don't evolve, well, morality goes wrong...

Also, there is this discreet but still present lack of respect, which is never sanctioned. Like when Sideswipe disrespects Optimus, or when Bumblebee belittles Starscream. That's not good morality… You don't disrespect someone and don't depreciate them…! This is not worthy of a hero!

Afterwards, of course, the characters shouldn't be totally Manichaean, but they still need to have these values, it's important. The heroes must give a good example (it's also a mistake that TFP does, especially towards the character of Starscream who is clearly a victim of abuse, but who strangely deserves it. No! No one deserves that!).

A film or a series must present strong and above all fair values. Justice is important, and it's not only a hero fighting a villain that you see while watching a movie, but two opposing values! One upright and just, and the other corrupt and perverted!

And, unfortunately, I haven't seen anything like that in the RID15 series…

For example, in the Sideswipe disrespect scene, which I think is inevitable, Optimus might not have gotten upset. Putting himself then in a superior position but full of respect.

Script :

Sideswipe, to Strongarm: Urgh! Stop Strongarm for a bit! You bugging Pops for war stories is getting older than… well Pops!

*Strongarm's shock, and Optimus's silence*

Optimus: I can understand your doubts about me, young Sideswipe. It's true that I'm probably not as powerful as I was before, but in exchange for the power, I gained wisdom, which is also essential during a fight. And together, I'm sure it's possible to form a good harmony. Also, I hope that you will be accept to tell me the stories that can be heard in the present, and that you will accept that I tell you the stories of the past. Because it is thanks to the knowledge of the past and the present that we can create a better future.

I would have preferred an answer like that. More Optimus Prime actually… Not grumpy old grandpa.

And I also would have liked a better conversation between Starscream and Bumblebee. When Starscream realizes the Dark Star Saber won't give him his full power, Bumblebee finds nothing better than to taunt him, telling him that he must really be worthless for even a sword of evil don't want him.

But, in truth, what that means is that Starscream isn't purely bad. That, maybe, even after all that's happened to him, there's still some good side in him. I really wish Bumblebee had said something like that to him, trying to convince him to give up his revenge.

Of course it wouldn't have worked, but Bee would have at least had the credit of having tried, and that would have given him a more noble value. It would have really enhanced Bumblebee, and reminded viewers that no one is totally bad, that there is always a little bit of good. And that's an important moral.

7 - Inconsistencies with TFP

In the RID15 series, I noticed that there were inconsistencies with the TFP series. Except, apparently, it's supposed to be a sequel to TFP. And, when you decide on that, you have to be careful that there are no inconsistencies or glaring differences with the other series.

Of course, I'm not talking about the character designs, it's normal that it changes over the series. Especially in the Transformers universe, the designs are always different.

Here, on the other hand, I am talking about things that we have seen or heard about about Transformers Prime, but whose logic RID15 does not follow.

- First point I noticed: How does a robot change color compared to RID15 and TFP?

Well, maybe it's me who sees an inconsistency where there is none. But, in RID15, Optimus tells his team that the Primes have taught him a lot of things, and at that moment he analyzes a vehicle to change his color. Then he tells the others that he can teach them how to do it.

… However in my memories, in TFP, Bumblebee and Smokescreen were able to change colors without problem in the end of season 3.

So why does the team in RID15 have to learn it from Optimus? While apparently it's possible for a scout and a recruit in TFP.

Is it a technique that has been forgotten over time? No, because if we had started from this theory, only Sideswipe and Strongarm should not know how to do it. Because they are part of the new generation.

The other theory is that it's two different techniques, and that's the one I prefer. I prefer that rather than it being a huge inconsistency with TFP.

- Second point: Megatronus Prime is the first Decepticon, WTF?!

So there is something that totally disturbed me… Megatronus Prime is the first Decepticon?! Lol, no, it's Megatron! It's known in TFP and in the aligned novels, Megatronus the gladiator is the one who created the Decepticon cause. Except, well, this Megatronus is Megatron.

I have nothing more to say about this huge continuity inconsistency. I don't mind that they presented Megatronus Prime, but he didn't have to be a Decepticon symbol, or be featured as the very first. It completely breaks all the continuity.

- Third point: Grimlock is not Grimlock of the aligned novels.

I really like Grimlock in RID15, I find him adorable, he's one of my favorite characters in this continuity along with Drift (and Starscream too of course).

But, I can understand that it can be disturbing to see Grimlock like that, especially if you're basing it on TFP. In the aligned novels, Grimlock is the epitome of brute force. He is a free spirit who obeys no one, and a powerful robot who leads an equally powerful team.

This Grimlock can't be TFP's, it's basically not possible. It's an inconsistency in the continuity, but Grimlock RID15 is so adorable, and above all saves the series so well that I am ready to forgive this error.

*

Now let's talk about the things I liked. There don't have a lot, but there have some:

1 – Season 2.5

I loved Season 2.5 of RID15, and not just because there's Starscream. The fact that there is my favorite character does not totally influence whether or not I like the film or the series.

For example, I don't like Bayverse movies, even though I can see my favorite character in them.

In fact, if I particularly like this season, it's because:

First, it has a much better scenario than the rest of the series. Remember the five rules?

Trigger: Seven minicons appear and seem to be running from someone we don't know, before it's discovered to be Starscream.

Adventure or Mission: Prevent Starscream from possessing the seven minicons

Challenge: If Starscream manages to have the minicons, he will then gain a power equivalent to a Prime, and by wish of revenge will destroy everything in his path.

Big Bad Guy: Starscream (I'll talk about his villain role right after)

Relationships between characters: Well, relationships don't necessarily improve, but we have at least relationships with Starscream, so already a past bond with Megatron. But also with Bumblebee and Optimus, who know that Starscream is a real threat.

During the episode, Starscream even manages to have the seven minicons. Which is rare in this series. We know that the heroes are going to win, but at that moment you sincerely wonder how they are going to do it. So, first positive point: a well-executed scenario.

Second point, Starscream is a real villain, a real enemy. Starscream has his own musical theme, which in the first place shows his importance. The minicons call him "Him", and they fear him and run away from him. Also, when the other Decepticons see him, they tremble in fear. And when Bumblebee learns of his return, he fears for the future.

Starscream is presented as a powerful and determined robot, which is not afraid of pain to achieve his goal. That's a real villain!

Third positive point, respect for continuity with TFP. Starscream is known, Bumblebee and Optimus know him thanks to the passive they have with him. There, you see that the series is the continuation of TFP. Because, in the other seasons, if you don't tell me that RID15 is the sequel to TFP, I just can't know, especially with the inconsistencies.

Fourth positive point, Starscream does not appear out of nowhere like Megatronus or Cyclonus. Even before appearing, Starscream is already introduced several times implicitly. Sure, you don't know it's Starscream, but you sense a threat is coming soon, thanks to the minicons. A dangerous threat.

That's why it's my favorite season, I was even sad that it wasn't longer. I haven't been bored once watching this season. I wish I had seen this more often in RID15…

2 - Drift and Grimlock

Drift and Grimlock are by far my favorite characters in the series, and for one simple reason: they evolve. They change over the series and improve.

Let's see how Drift and Grimlock were at the start.

Grimlock: A robot who thinks with his fists, who thinks only of fighting, and who does not pay attention to others.

Drift: A stern robot, who doesn't trust his students to let them take their own initiative.

Yet as the series progresses, Grimlock becomes wiser and more thoughtful, and Drift leaves Slipstream and Jetstorm to learn from their mistakes for themselves. Drift also softens.

We also have the background of Drift, with the return of Shadow Raker, which deepens the character, and therefore makes him more endearing to the spectators.

It's a shame that this evolution was not made on the characters, since apparently it was possible.

*

That was my analysis on RID15, of course, I didn't talk about everything. I haven't talked about Soundwave, nor have I gone into the conspiracy on Cybertron.

For Soundwave, I confess that I did not find the act interesting. And as with Megatronus, Soundwave took too long to appear, only to be defeated in one episode...

The Cybertron conspiracy moment was a good idea, but it's not introduced well enough to really shock or surprise you.

And, it's true that there are inconsistencies with TFP, but there is also some respect for continuity such as: the mention of Miko, Raf and Jack; Starscream versus the Predacons; the fact that Megatron abandoned the Decepticon cause; and Soundwave who is locked in the Shadow Zone.

I understand why some people love RID15, because even with all the negatives points I've cited, this series has great potential. However, this potential has unfortunately not been exploited well enough.

[scribe-of-hael]

I know there are billions of starscreams. But here is a few. Also SG is shattered Glass. :3